Thieves Stole ‘Nvidia’ Trailers. They Got 20 Tons of Sand

LoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyOn Thursday morning, a top executive at self-driving truck developer PlusAI received an unexpected congratulatory text message from an acquaintance. “I have been proud of you for your adventure and success at Plus. Just saw two of your trucks near my work place! :)” the message said.

But PlusAI’s trucks weren’t supposed to be near this person’s office, in Newark, California. As of the last the company knew, the trailers were docked outside its warehouse, half a mile away. Soon, according to a police statement, cops were on the scene to help recover the two trailers, emblazoned with logos for PlusAI and Nvidia, the most valuable company in the world. The two companies are working together on AI software and autonomous truck technology.

That’s when PlusAI employees gave police a hint as to why whoever hooked their own cabs up to the trailers and drove away might have abandoned the whole thing after breaking them open: Each trailer was full of about 20,000 pounds of sand.

“PlusAI uses simulated loads in its trailers to assist with research and development testing,” says Lauren Kwan, a company spokesperson. The trailers were recovered with “40,000 pounds of sand intact.”

PlusAI’s tech-enabled truck cabs—where the driver typically sits and controls the vehicle—were parked inside its warehouse and weren’t taken, Kwan says. The trailers were secured with hand locks, which were broken.

The case is under investigation, and no arrests have been made, says Amy Gee, a spokesperson for the Fremont Police Department.

Nvidia didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

The incident comes at a time of rising theft targeting high-value computer equipment, especially chips and other electronics meant for use in data centers. In August, WIRED revealed two California incidents in which thieves deliberately struck the vehicles of security escorts that follow high-value tech loads to ensure they reach their destinations. The trucks involved were then driven to another destination. As of August, millions of dollars of data center equipment onboard had not been recovered.

This year, thieves have also targeted Tesla batteries and various bitcoin mining machines. Authorities have arrested suspects in some cases, but many crimes remain unsolved.

Some of the most common targets of cargo theft in recent months across the US include metals and enterprise-grade computer and networking equipment, according to Verisk CargoNet, an analytics and risk assessment firm.

This story has a happier ending. By Thursday afternoon, the sand trailers were back with PlusAI, the Fremont Police Department said.

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Aarian Marshall is a staff writer covering transportation systems and cities. Before joining WIRED, she wrote for The Atlantic’s CityLab. Marshall is based in San Diego and is developing opinions about tacos. ... Read MoreStaff WriterXParesh Dave is a senior writer for WIRED, covering the inner workings of Big Tech companies. He writes about how apps and gadgets are built and about their impacts while giving voice to the stories of the underappreciated and disadvantaged. He was previously a reporter for Reuters and the Los Angeles Times, ... Read MoreSenior WriterTopicstrucksAutonomous Vehiclessupply chainlawPolicedriverless carsSelf-Driving Carsartificial intelligenceHoka Coupon Codes: 30% Off in September 2026Unlock free expedited shipping or 10% off with today’s Hoka discount codes, plus save up to 30% with the best discounts for September 2026.Boutayna Chokrane HBO Max Promo Codes This September 2026Stream your favorite shows and save up to 50% today with HBO Max discount codes and subscription deals.Molly HigginsTop AT&T Promo Codes: $50 Off This September 2026Whether you’re looking to upgrade your internet or get the latest phone, we’ve got you covered with our selection of AT&T coupons and deals.Kat MerckNike Promo Codes: 30% Off for September 2026Check out our deals for Nike this September 2026, including 15% off select purchases.Boutayna Chokrane eBay Coupons in September 2026Save up to 60% on a selection of items at eBay, including electronics, home products, card games, car parts and more.Molly HigginsValvoline Coupons and Promo Codes for 2026We've gathered all the top Valvoline coupons and promo codes for September 2026, including deals on full synthetic oil changes and other essential maintenance.Kat Merck20% Off With a Brooks Promo Code for 2026Enjoy 20% off your first order with a Brooks coupon code, plus top discounts and deals on our favorite Brooks running shoes.Boutayna Chokrane Uplift Desk Coupon Codes: Save up to $570Upgrade your home office with the best Uplift Desk discount codes. Save on standing desks, ergonomic chairs, and accessories during the Spring Setup Sale.Nicole KinningTop Altra Running Promo Codes and Deals September 2026Score big savings on Altra Running shoes with up to 50% off sale styles, 20% off select models, 10% off your first order when you sign up, plus free standard delivery on every purchase.Boutayna Chokrane Top Mattress Firm Coupons: Save up to $700Use a Mattress Firm promo code to save on top mattresses, score a free adjustable base, and unlock up to $300 in instant credits. Nena Farrell Squarespace Promo Codes: 20% Off in September 2026Get 20% off your next website, 10% off with exclusive Squarespace discount code, 50% off plans, and more top coupons from WIRED.Molly HigginsDell Coupon Codes: 20% Off for September 2026Get 20% off with verified Dell promo code, plus today’s coupons for up to $600 off laptops, Alienware monitors, and all things tech.Luke LarsenWired CouponsLegalZoom Promo CodeLegalZoom Promo Code 10% Off Sitewide

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